photo: AdyExpress / Public domain/ADY freight train
Azerbaijan has launched its first export train to China, boosting its role in the Middle Corridor and expanding international trade.
In a historic development for Azerbaijan and China's trade relations, Azerbaijan recently sent its first export goods by rail to China. On November 24, the first export train, traveling from Baku to Xi'an, China, departed, marking the beginning of a new era in the Middle Corridor transportation route, as reported by Transport Corridors.
Strengthening Azerbaijan’s Strategic Role in Global Trade
The export train, named the Baku-Xian, carried 62 40-foot containers of Azerbaijani goods, and it is expected that 15,000 tons or 600 containers of export cargo will be sent to China through this route by the end of the year, according to AdyExpress. The Middle Corridor, a key trade route connecting China to Europe, has been instrumental in boosting Azerbaijan’s role as a key logistics and transport hub in Central Asia. The Middle Corridor has been growing rapidly, with the export shipment further improving its efficiency and capacity to handle goods in both directions.
Azerbaijan Railways CJSC (ADY) Deputy Chairman Arif Aghayev said, "This initiative will not only raise Azerbaijan's export potential to a new level but also further strengthen our country's strategic position in the world trade system." According to Aghayev, this project plays a key role in enhancing the ability of local entrepreneurs to send goods directly to China, expanding the Middle Corridor's reach.
Boosting Local Economy and Creating New Markets
The first export block train was significant for Azerbaijan's local economy. Ziya Aghayev, Chairman of the Absheron Logistics Center, stated that this move will create new opportunities for local producers and attract greater foreign investment to the country. "This project will contribute to the development of the local economy and increase the interest of foreign investors in our country," he said according to AdyExpress
Azerbaijan's increasing participation in the Middle Corridor boosts its logistical capabilities and strengthens its position as a major transit country between China and Europe. Absheron Logistics Center, Baku International Sea Trade Port, and Azerbaijan Caspian Sea Shipping CJSC, in partnership with ADY, are crucial players in this project.
Expanding the Volume of Trade and Transport
In recent years, Azerbaijan’s role in the Middle Corridor has expanded significantly. Since the beginning of 2024, 300 container block trains have already been sent from China to Azerbaijan, as reported by AdyExpress. Looking ahead, the number of trains is set to increase significantly, with projections to exceed 1,000 block trains by 2025.
Collaboration Across Borders for Efficient Logistics
The success of this project proves the efficiency and coordination between Azerbaijan’s transport operators and logistics providers. The Middle Corridor's development relies heavily on this public-private partnership, which continues to drive the efficiency of trade between Azerbaijan, China, and Europe. Azerbaijan’s strategic position has enabled it to serve as a vital link in the growing network of rail freight that connects the East and West.
Source: AdyExpress; Transport Corridors